The News Hub

Published: 3 February 2026

Citizen of the Year: Dr Jennifer Foreman

Dr Jennifer Foreman works tirelessly to promote a better world for women and girls through her leadership, advocacy, and service with Zonta International. Passionate, driven and inspiring, Jennifer is a respected mentor whose enthusiasm and commitment are deeply valued by those she supports.

Jennifer currently serves as Zonta Area 2 Director for South Australia and, in July 2026, will take on the role of Lieutenant Governor of District 23, covering South Australia, Western Australia, Victoria and Tasmania. She is an active member of the Zonta Adelaide Torrens Club and strongly supports fundraising and service initiatives that make a tangible difference to women and girls. These include assistance for women and children escaping domestic violence, the provision of breast cushions for cancer patients at Burnside Hospital, the preparation of birthing kits for women living in low-resource settings, and funding programs that improve access to education and leadership opportunities for girls and young women.

Jennifer is an outstanding citizen whose leadership, compassion, and community commitment enrich the City of Burnside.

Dr Jennifer Foreman

Highly Commended: Andrew Hillier

Andrew has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the local community through long-standing service and leadership. He has served as a Zone Leader for Linden Park Neighbourhood Watch for 35 years, and in most committee roles including Area Coordinator and is a former City of Burnside councillor, contributing significantly to youth development and local governance.

Andrew is also a co-founder, key driver, and lead negotiator behind the establishment of the Laural Avenue Pirkurna Wirra / Peter Bennet Organic Community Garden, which officially opened on 2 December 2021. His vision and dedication were instrumental in transforming the site into a thriving community asset. He also played a pivotal role in the establishment and ongoing development of the Linden Park Community Garden Association Inc, which has grown to more than 50 active members.

Highly Commended: Robert Hilditch

Robert has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to volunteering within the City of Burnside. He has volunteered with the Burnside Shed program for over 15 years and has been an active contributor to the Men’s Breakfast program since its commencement in 2014, continuing his involvement to this day.

In addition, Robert has generously given his time to the local graffiti removal team and has supported various local sporting organisations. Through his consistent and practical volunteer contributions, Rob has helped strengthen community wellbeing, pride and connection across the local area.

Young Citizen of the Year: Tom Edwards

Tom is a tireless volunteer and leader of the Glenunga Rams Football Club. After seven years contributing socially, he joined the committee as Secretary five years ago and has served as President for the past two years. He now helps manage a club fielding three men’s teams, one women’s team, and more than 30 junior teams.

Tom is particularly proud of the growth of the junior girls’ football program, which now supports more than 200 girls each week. Under his leadership, Glenunga established its first Women’s Team in 2025, which went on to win the Premiership in its inaugural season. Many junior girls have since progressed to SANFL level, with one now playing AFL, including Glenunga players serving as captain and vice-captain of the South Australian Under 18 Girls Team.

Tom has strengthened the club’s community engagement through initiatives such as Indigenous and ANZAC Day guernseys, commemorative presentations, and premiership reunions celebrating the club’s rich history.

Tom Edwards

Active Citizen of the Year: Pauline Silins

As Secretary of the Friends of the Rose Park Memorial Commemoration Committee, Pauline has made an outstanding contribution to the community through long-standing volunteer service and leadership.

Pauline plays a central role in coordinating the annual ANZAC Day Dawn Service at Rose Park, a tradition held at the site since 1919. Pauline has been involved in the service for 20 years, including through the Burnside-Prospect RAAF Association and now the Friends Committee, working closely with the City of Burnside. Pauline manages key administrative and planning responsibilities and advocates for the ongoing care of the Memorial, ensuring this important commemorative tradition continues for future generations.

Pauline Silins

Welcome to our new citizens!

Congratulations to the 91 new Australian citizens who on January 26 took their Citizenship Pledge at the City of Burnside Australia Day ceremony to officially become members of the Australian community.

Joining us from 24 countries, the conferees ranged from ages three to 73!